The linked EFF article fails to point out that the one thing the FCC does understand is politics and money (two things that in this instance, corruptly equal one thing). The FCC has no interest in a sound understanding of the technology. They have no interest in even making sense. How digital information is “transmitted” or “accessed” or “flows” is completely irrelevant to the commission. They have an interest in how money flows, and they understand it. They are attempting to maximize it for their clients. The input of electrical engineers and computer scientists is unwanted by the commission.
I do think the article is right that there is a last hope in Congress and in the mid-terms, but not much-- even if Democrats took back both houses.
If the Pai plan goes through I will be interested to see the technological response.
This is another instance of a true tragedy of the commons, in that any well-functioning commons is looted by bullies in the name of the market.
